14 BEST Waterfalls in Bali: Swimming Spots, Hike Difficulty & Tips [+Tickets]

Beyond its beaches and temples, Bali holds another kind of magic waterfalls hidden deep within lush jungles, cascading from cliffs, and echoing with the rhythm of nature. These sacred sites have long been part of Balinese spirituality, but in recent years, they’ve also captured the hearts of travelers seeking adventure, calm, and connection to the island’s wilder side.

In this guide, we invite you to explore the waterfalls of Bali not just as destinations, but as experiences. From misty treks to hidden pools, we’ll uncover what makes each fall unique; how to get there, when to visit, whether you can swim, and what to expect along the way.

Ready to dive into the mystery and beauty of Bali’s waterfalls?

The waterfalls are calling!

1. 🌿 North Bali Waterfalls

Far from the beach clubs and busy towns of the south, North Bali is where the island’s true jungle heart beats. Here, waterfalls thunder through lush valleys, hidden behind rice terraces and clove plantations. These are the kinds of places where the journey is just as memorable as the destination and the falls themselves are nothing short of breathtaking.

Let’s start with the north’s crown jewel:

💧Sekumpul Waterfall

Often called the most beautiful waterfall in Bali, Sekumpul is not just one, but a cluster of seven streams tumbling down a towering cliff surrounded by dense jungle. It’s the kind of place that makes you stop and just take it all in.

• Location: Sekumpul Village, Buleleng Regency
• Hike Difficulty: Moderate (approx. 300+ steps + river crossing)
• Entrance Fee: ~IDR 20,000 (viewpoint only) or ~IDR 125,000 (guided trek to base)
• Parking Fee: ~IDR 5,000
• Can You Swim? Yes, at the base — but water is cold and current can be strong
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (8–10 AM) for misty light & fewer crowds
• Tip: A local guide is mandatory for the trek to the base (government regulation). The trail can get slippery — wear proper shoes.

📸 Photo Spot Tip: After the hike down, there’s a stone where you can capture the full height of all seven streams in one shot — pure magic!

🏞️ Sekumpul Waterfall Day Trip

💦 Gitgit Waterfall

One of the most well-known waterfalls in Bali, Gitgit offers a classic jungle waterfall experience: tall, powerful, and surrounded by lush vegetation. Located just off the main road between Lovina and Bedugul, it’s a popular stop for travelers heading through North Bali.

• Location: Gitgit Village, Buleleng Regency
• Hike Difficulty: Easy (approx. 15–20 minutes on paved steps)
• Entrance Fee: ~IDR 20,000
• Parking Fee: ~IDR 5,000
• Can You Swim? Not ideal — water flow is strong and the pool is shallow in some parts
• Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds
• Tip: There are local guides at the entrance, but not mandatory. Expect some souvenir stalls along the path — polite but persistent.

📸 Photo Spot Tip: Stand on the stone bridge just before reaching the base — it frames the waterfall beautifully between the trees.

🌸 Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls

Tucked away in the hills near Munduk, Banyu Wana Amertha isn’t just one waterfall; it’s a lush sanctuary with four unique waterfalls, each with its own charm. Unlike the more touristy spots, this place feels untouched and serene, perfect for those craving a quiet nature escape. It feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

• Location: Near Wanagiri village, Buleleng Regency
• Hike Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (10–15 min walk, some uneven paths)
• Entrance Fee: ~IDR 30,000
• Parking Fee: ~IDR 5,000
• Can You Swim? Yes, especially at the Twin Waterfalls and the Main Cascade
• Best Time to Visit: Morning to midday for the best natural light and quiet atmosphere

📸 Photo Spot Tip: The “Spray Waterfall” with fine mist-like falls over mossy rocks is a unique shot you won’t find elsewhere in Bali.

🌺 Fiji Waterfall

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor Sekumpul, Fiji Waterfall is a hidden gem that deserves attention in its own right. This stunning triple-stream waterfall cascades down side-by-side cliffs into a lush canyon, creating a dramatic and almost surreal scene. 

• Location: Sekumpul area, Lemukih village, Buleleng Regency
• Hike Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (same route as Sekumpul — steep and involves a river crossing)
• Entrance Fee: Included in Sekumpul waterfall trekking package
• Parking Fee: ~IDR 5,000
• Can You Swim? Yes, calmer than Sekumpul and very refreshing
• Best Time to Visit: Morning (can get slippery later in the day after multiple visitors)
• Tip: Local guides will often take you to both falls in one guided trek. Let them know you want to include Fiji. It’s sometimes skipped unless requested.

📸 Photo Spot Tip: Use a wide-angle lens or setting to capture all three streams at once from the rock ledge near the base. It’s one of Bali’s most dramatic waterfall views.

2. 🌿 Central Bali Waterfalls (Around Ubud)

While North Bali offers remote jungle adventures, Central Bali is all about convenience and charm. These waterfalls are located just a short drive from Ubud; perfect for a quick escape into nature without needing a full-day trek. 

In this section, we’ll explore the most beautiful and accessible falls in Central Bali, complete with swimming spots, photo tips, and everything you need to know before you go.

🌊 Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan is one of Bali’s most accessible waterfalls and also one of its most photographed. Located just 20 minutes from Ubud and reachable by a paved staircase, this wide, powerful waterfall draws visitors with its dramatic flow and tropical setting. Unlike many others in Bali, it isn’t hidden deep in the jungle, which makes it a favorite for half-day trips.

• Location: Tegenungan Village, Gianyar (approx. 10 km south of Ubud)
• Hike Difficulty: Easy (but includes ~100 steps down and back up)
• Entrance Fee: ~IDR 20,000
• Parking Fee: ~IDR 5,000
• Can You Swim? Yes — but take care near the base, especially in rainy season when currents are stronger
• Best Time to Visit: Before 9 AM or around 4 PM to avoid tour groups and harsh lighting
• Tip: There's a café and viewing deck at the top with great panoramic views; perfect for a rest before or after the walk.

📸 Photo Spot Tip: Climb the rocky ledge to the left side of the waterfall base for a dramatic angle — just watch your step!

✨ Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Tukad Cepung is unlike any other waterfall in Bali. Hidden inside a cave-like canyon, the waterfall cascades through a slit in the rocks, creating a magical scene especially when sunlight pours in and lights up the mist with golden rays. It’s one of those rare places that feels both sacred and cinematic.
This spot has gained popularity thanks to Instagram, but visit at the right time and you’ll still feel the quiet awe of nature at work.

• Location: Tembuku village, Bangli Regency (around 45 mins from Ubud)
• Hike Difficulty: Moderate (15–20 min walk including stairs, narrow rock paths, and a shallow river crossing)
• Entrance Fee: ~IDR 20,000
• Parking Fee: ~IDR 5,000
• Can You Swim? Not really — it’s shallow and more for wading or sitting
• Best Time to Visit: 7–9 AM for the iconic light rays through the canyon
  

📸 Photo Spot Tip: Stand just in front of the waterfall with your back to the light source around 8:00 AM the beams will wrap around you like something out of a movie.

💦 Kanto Lampo Waterfall

A rising favorite on social media, Kanto Lampo is a beautiful stepped waterfall that flows over a rock terrace. It's easy to reach and close to Ubud, making it a quick and rewarding stop.

• Location: Gianyar (30 mins from Ubud)
• Hike Difficulty: Easy (5–10 min walk)
• Entrance Fee: ~IDR 20,000
• Can You Swim? You can wade at the base, but space is limited

📸 Photo Tip: Go early, the narrow canyon gets crowded fast

3. 🌄 East Bali Waterfalls

East Bali is where the island's spiritual and natural worlds meet. Far from the crowds, the waterfalls here are quieter, more remote, and often feel untouched. Nestled among rice terraces, mountain villages, and sacred temples, these falls are perfect for those looking to slow down, reflect, and enjoy Bali’s serene side.

Let’s explore a few of East Bali’s hidden gems:

🌙 Gembleng Waterfall

A peaceful, tiered waterfall with natural rock pools and one of the best jungle views in Bali. Gembleng has become popular for its “infinity-pool-style” rock ledge but it still feels calm and sacred.

• Location: Sidemen village, Karangasem
• Hike Difficulty: Easy (5–10 mins walk + stairs)
• Entrance Fee: Donation-based (IDR 10,000–20,000)
• Can You Swim? Yes — in the small rock pools
• Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for soft light
• Tip: Bring a sarong or light towel — sitting in the upper pool while watching the valley is one of East Bali’s most peaceful moments.

🌊 Jagasatru Waterfall

Tall, quiet, and surrounded by greenery, Jagasatru is one of East Bali’s least-known falls which makes it perfect if you’re looking to escape the usual routes. It’s not far from Tirta Gangga and pairs well with a cultural day trip.

• Location: Duda Village, Karangasem
• Hike Difficulty: Easy to moderate (steep stone path, ~10 mins)
• Entrance Fee: Small donation (~IDR 10,000)
• Can You Swim? Yes, though water can be chilly and powerful
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for full solitude
• Tip: Combine with a visit to nearby temples or Sidemen for a full-day slow travel experience.

🌾 Yeh Labuh Waterfall

A true hidden gem in Karangasem, Yeh Labuh is untouched, wild, and rarely visited. The waterfall flows down a rock face into a small pool surrounded by jungle: no crowds, no concrete, just raw nature. It’s a great off-the-path stop if you’re exploring East Bali’s villages.

• Location: Near Selumbung village, Karangasem
• Hike Difficulty: Moderate (~15–20 mins with some steep, natural trail)
• Entrance Fee: Free or small donation
• Can You Swim? Yes, small pool, best after rain season
• Tip: Bring shoes with grip; the trail is not maintained. No facilities here — just pure nature.

4. 🌴 West Bali Waterfalls

West Bali is the island’s least explored region: wild, quiet, and often overlooked. But for travelers willing to go off the beaten path, the reward is total immersion in nature. The waterfalls here are surrounded by dense forest, small traditional villages, and untouched landscapes. You won’t find crowds or cafés, just the sound of water and the jungle around you.

Let’s take a look at a few of West Bali’s hidden treasures:

🌳 Juwuk Manis Waterfall

Juwuk Manis (which means “Sweet Orange”) is a twin-stream waterfall tucked into the hills of Pekutatan. The walk down is peaceful, and the falls are surrounded by clove and coffee plantations, perfect for a quiet nature break on a West Bali road trip.

• Location: Pekutatan, Jembrana Regency
• Hike Difficulty: Moderate (~15–20 mins walk with some steep steps)
• Entrance Fee: Free or small donation
• Can You Swim? Yes, small natural pool
• Best Time to Visit: Morning, especially during the dry season
• Tip: Combine with a drive along the scenic west coast for a peaceful day out.

🌿 Blahmantung Waterfall (aka Pupuan Waterfall)

Blahmantung is one of the tallest waterfalls in Bali and one of the most underrated. Located near the farming village of Pupuan, it’s surrounded by coffee plantations and tall cliffs. The waterfall drops nearly 100 meters, especially impressive during or after the rainy season.

• Location: Pupuan, Tabanan Regency
• Hike Difficulty: Moderate (~30-minute walk through plantations)
• Entrance Fee: Free or donation-based
• Can You Swim? Yes, but current can be strong depending on season
• Tip: A great waterfall for those doing a loop from the north to the west, less visited, more local.

🌲 Munduk Waterfalls (borderline West/North Bali)

While technically closer to North Bali, Munduk Waterfalls are often included in West Bali itineraries due to their location near the mountain ridge. Surrounded by spice plantations and misty forest trails, Munduk offers a cooler, highland waterfall experience.

• Location: Munduk village, Buleleng/Tabanan border
• Hike Difficulty: Moderate (loop trail connects several small waterfalls)
• Entrance Fee: ~IDR 20,000 per waterfall
• Can You Swim? Yes, in some of the lower pools
• Tip: Bring a rain jacket; the weather can change fast in the highlands!

🧭 Plan Based on Your Travel Style

Not all waterfalls are created equal, some are perfect for a peaceful swim, others are ideal for adrenaline-fueled cliff jumps, while a few are just waiting to light up your Instagram feed.

To help you make the most of your time in Bali, we’ve grouped the waterfalls based on experience, not just location. Knowing what kind of waterfall suits your vibe will make your Bali itinerary smoother, smarter, and way more fun.

⭐ Most Popular Waterfalls in Bali

Easy to reach, widely shared online, and often the busiest: these are Bali’s headline falls.

• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Sekumpul Waterfall
• Tukad Cepung Waterfall
• Aling-Aling Waterfall
• Gitgit Waterfall

🏊‍♀️ Best Waterfalls for Swimming

Calm pools, manageable currents, and clean water make these perfect for a dip.

• Tibumana Waterfall
• Aling-Aling (Kroya & Kembar sections)
• Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls
• Sekumpul Waterfall (with caution)
• Juwuk Manis Waterfall
• Yeh Labuh Waterfall

📸 Most Instagrammable Waterfalls

If you’re here for the shot, these offer stunning scenery, dramatic light, and unique backdrops.

• Tukad Cepung Waterfall (light beams in a canyon)
• Gembleng Waterfall (natural infinity pool vibe)
• Kanto Lampo Waterfall (stepped rock wall)
• Tegenungan Waterfall (strong flow, drone-friendly)
• Banyu Wana Amertha (multi-tiered lush setting)

🌿 Hidden Gems (Off-the-Beaten-Path)

Less crowded, more authentic, perfect for those looking to escape the typical tourist route.

• Yeh Labuh Waterfall
• Jagasatru Waterfall
• Gembleng Waterfall
• Juwuk Manis Waterfall
• Munduk Waterfalls

🧗‍♂️ Best for Adventure Seekers

Looking for a bit of thrill? These spots come with hikes, jumps, or rugged trails.

• Aling-Aling Waterfall (cliff jumping + natural slides)
• Sekumpul Waterfall (challenging hike to the base)
• Blahmantung Waterfall (long jungle walk, high drop)
• Munduk Waterfalls (loop trail with multiple falls)

📜 Cultural & Historical Significance of Waterfalls in Bali

Bali’s waterfalls are not just natural landmarks. They are deeply woven into the spiritual and cultural fabric of the island.

Here’s what we can include in this section:

🌺 Waterfalls as Sacred Spaces

In Balinese Hinduism, nature is sacred, and water (called “tirta”) is considered a purifier. Many waterfalls — especially those in the mountains — are believed to be spiritually powerful and are used in cleansing rituals (melukat) and temple ceremonies.

Some locals believe waterfalls are guarded by spirits (penunggu), and it’s common for offerings (canang sari) to be placed near the entrance or at the base of the falls, not just for tradition, but to ask permission from nature before entering.

🕉️ Connection to Temples and Local Mythology

Certain waterfalls are located near temples and are seen as extensions of those sacred sites. For example:

Tukad Cepung is often associated with purification ceremonies due to its cave-like setting and filtered sunlight, which locals interpret as symbolic of “divine light.”

Gitgit Waterfall is known among nearby villagers for local legends of forest spirits, and some still avoid visiting it alone after sunset.

🌧️ Practical Origins

Historically, waterfalls also served as natural water sources for irrigation systems in Bali’s subak rice terraces. The flow from jungle falls was carefully channeled to maintain rice fields: a perfect example of how Balinese people worked with, not against, nature.

🧳 Save This Section When Planning Your Trip

⏰ Best Time to Visit Waterfalls in Bali

• Early morning (7–9 AM) is best for soft light, fewer crowds, and cooler temperatures.
• Rainy season (Nov–Mar) means stronger flows, but can also make trails slippery and water muddy.
• Dry season (Apr–Oct) offers clearer water and safer hikes.

🥾 What to Bring

1. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking sandals (many trails are muddy or rocky)
2. Swimwear + towel
3. Waterproof bag for electronics
4. Extra clothes (you’ll likely get wet!)
5. Cash (for entry fees, parking, and donations — small bills preferred)

🚫 What Not to Do

• Don’t litter: many waterfalls are sacred to locals.
• Don’t swim if there are “No Swimming” signs or strong currents.
• Don’t enter temple-linked waterfalls without wearing respectful attire.

📌 3 Pro Tips

1. Hire a local guide at bigger waterfalls like Sekumpul or Aling-Aling — not just for safety, but for cultural context and hidden photo spots.
2. Weekdays are always quieter than weekends.
3. Combine nearby waterfalls into one day (like Tibumana + Tukad Cepung or Sekumpul + Fiji).

🚗 How to Explore Bali’s Waterfalls

Waterfalls in Bali are scattered across remote villages, lush forests, and mountain regions and depending on how you like to travel, there are a few great ways to explore them:

1. 🚘 Hire a Private Driver

If you’re looking for comfort, local insights, and a hassle-free day, hiring a private driver is one of the best ways to explore Bali’s waterfalls. A knowledgeable driver can help you build a custom route, avoid tourist traps, and even recommend hidden gems you might not find on a map. Many drivers offer full-day packages at reasonable rates; perfect for couples, families, or small groups.

2. 🛵 Rent a Scooter

Confident on two wheels? Scooters are the most flexible and budget-friendly way to waterfall-hop across Bali. They allow you to travel at your own pace, stop wherever you want, and dive into local life along the way.

Just don’t forget:

• An international driving permit
• Helmet (always!)
• Travel insurance that covers scooter use
• Start early in the day to avoid traffic and get to the falls before they get crowded.

3. 🧭 Join a Guided Waterfall Tour

Plenty of tour companies in Bali offer full-day or half-day waterfall experiences. These are ideal if you want to visit multiple falls in one day without worrying about navigation or entrance fees. Tours range from adventure treks to scenic photo tours, there’s something for every travel style.

FAQ About Waterfalls in Bali

From hidden jungle pools to powerful cascades echoing through sacred valleys, Bali’s waterfalls are more than just beautiful sights; they’re an invitation to slow down, reconnect with nature, and discover the island’s wilder side.

Whether you're here to chase adventure, cool off in crystal-clear water, or simply sit in silence beneath the falls, there's a waterfall in Bali waiting for you.

So pack your towel, grab your camera, and get ready to explore some of the most unforgettable natural wonders the island has to offer!